The Real Scoop on WBENC + WSOB Certification (Yep, We Did It)
If you’ve been hanging around the women-owned business world for more than five minutes, you’ve probably heard about WBENC and WSOB certification. It gets tossed around in conversations like some magical key that unlocks all the doors. But what does it actually mean? Do you really need it? And is the paperwork as soul-sucking as everyone says? Spoiler: yes, the paperwork is a beast. But yes, it’s worth it.
At Ivy House Creative, we decided to stop side-eyeing the acronyms and actually go for it. We’re in the process of getting certified with WBENC (Women’s Business Enterprise National Council) and WSOB (Women-Owned Small Business) because we believe in walking the walk, not just talking about empowerment on Instagram. Here’s the real scoop — the good, the bad, and the “why did they ask for that many bank statements?”
What the Heck Is WBENC Certification?
The WBENC stamp basically says: this business is at least 51% owned, controlled, and managed by women. It’s not just a pretty badge for your website. It’s a nationally recognized certification that big corporations and government agencies actually look for when they’re awarding contracts. Translation: it opens doors you didn’t even know were locked.
And WSOB?
The Women-Owned Small Business certification is through the SBA (Small Business Administration). This one is specifically about helping women-owned businesses land federal contracts. Uncle Sam literally has money earmarked to spend with women-owned companies, but you need the certification to get in the door.
Why Bother With the Paperwork?
Because visibility matters. When you’re competing for opportunities, being able to show that you’re certified gives you credibility before you even walk into the room. It’s a differentiator. It’s proof. And it tells partners and clients that you’re not just a women-owned business in name — you’re officially recognized as one.
The Good Stuff (AKA Why We’re Doing It)
Access to Bigger Contracts. Corporations and government agencies are actively looking to work with certified women-owned businesses.
Networking + Resources. WBENC has events, trainings, and communities that connect you with other women entrepreneurs.
Funding Opportunities. Grants and programs often prioritize or require certification.
Street Cred. It’s a badge that says, “We’re legit.” Not just to clients, but to your competitors, too.
The Hard Stuff (AKA Why People Put It Off)
The Paperwork. They want receipts. Literal receipts. Business licenses, tax returns, financial statements, operating agreements, proof of ownership. If you’re not organized, it can feel overwhelming.
The Timeline. It’s not instant. The review process takes time.
The Imposter Syndrome. A lot of women downplay their eligibility or think, “Do I really deserve this?” Newsflash: yes, you do.
Pro Tips If You’re Thinking About It
Get your ducks in a row before you apply. Have your documents organized.
Don’t let perfectionism stop you. The process is designed to weed out fraud, not genuine businesses.
Use the resources — both WBENC and SBA have guides and help desks.
Remember why you’re doing it. This isn’t busywork. It’s positioning your business for bigger growth.
The Bottom Line
Certification isn’t the magic wand some people hype it up to be. It won’t suddenly flood your inbox with million-dollar contracts. But it does give you credibility, connections, and opportunities you wouldn’t have otherwise. And for women entrepreneurs who are already running uphill, every advantage matters.
At Ivy House, we believe women-owned businesses deserve the spotlight. WBENC and WSOB certification are tools that help us — and you — take up more space, get more recognition, and secure bigger wins.
👉 Thinking about certification or want help figuring out how to leverage it once you’ve got it? Work with Ivy House Creative and let’s put your women-owned status to work.
